Speak Out OCTOBER 2021 DIGITAL EDITION

Association NEWS

Thank you, but it's not farewell

In acknowledgement of Dr Cori Williams

Stephanie Gershon has joined Speech Pathology Australia as the National Conference Coordinator (replacing Pam Richards). Stephanie has a long background in conference and events management, and has planned and delivered large conferences across Australia and New Zealand. Her most recent position, which she held for 11 years, was with the College of Intensive Care Medicine of Australia and New Zealand. In 2021, she managed the College’s Annual Scientific Meeting, which ran over 3 days on a virtual platform, while in previous years, conferences have been held in-person in Australia and New Zealand with a mix of international and local speakers, including keynote and concurrent sessions, and including sponsorship and exhibitions. Stephanie’s previous roles have been across commercial and professional associations, including with Waldron Smith Management, the Australian Physiotherapy Association and The Meeting Planners. Welcome Stephanie to SPA—we look forward to you taking on the management of our National Conference and know you will bring a wealth of experience and ideas. Gail Mulcair Chief Executive Officer New National Conference Coordinator commences With the commencement of Nicole McGill in the expanded role of Senior Advisor Evidence Based Practice and Research (EPB), I wish to warmly thank and acknowledge the significant contributions made by our outgoing staff member in this role, Dr Cori Williams. While Cori will remain involved in certain aspects including finalising the revised EBP learning modules and the current year’s research grant reviews, Cori has otherwise handed over the reins to Nicole. Cori held the role of EBP and Research National Advisor (becoming senior advisor) since early 2012, and has been instrumental in providing members with a high level of education and resources to promote and inform evidence-based practice within the profession, as well as streamlining the criteria and review process for the SPA Research Grants program. Cori has always brought to the role a high level of experience and academic knowledge and has shared this knowledge with members and staff alike. Cori has presented at many SPA conferences on the topic of EBP and revised online learning modules will continue to be of significant value and importance to members. We are very fortunate that Cori will be continuing with SPA in other areas of Association activity, in particular to continue support for the implementation of the Association’s RAP, as well as being appointed project officer to develop the Association’s Response to Racism Position Statement. So we are pleased it is not farewell to you Cori, but an enormous thank you for your dedicated and high quality contributions in the areas of EBP and research. Gail Mulcair Chief Executive Officer

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October 2021 | Speak Out